Argument Objectives

Below is a master list of the
critical thinking objectives for the various modules in the Litonline webs which support
the major competencies from the list of
competencies generated at the
2003 VCCS May Symposium on Commonwealth Courses. [The link gives
instructions for logging onto Blackboard.]

Competency
115 [Argument]: Articulate a position through
a thesis statement and advance it using evidence, examples and
counterarguments that are relevant to the audience or issue at hand.

Competency
116 [Variety of Argument Methods]:
Use a variety of methods to
develop arguments, including compare-contrast reasoning; logical arguments
(inductive or deductive); and alternation between general and specific (e.g.,
connections between public knowledge and personal observation and
experience).

Competency 117 [Voice: Rhetoric and Style]:
Write to persuade the reader
by anticipating and addressing counterarguments, by using rhetorical
devices and by developing an accurate and expressive style of
communication that moves beyond mechanics to add flair and elegance to
writing.

After
reading, pondering, and discussing the examples listed below, students should be able to
draw from sample student essays several examples of the skills required to accomplish
these argument competences.

"Hills
Like White Elephants"
includes a student essay, "Love and Licorice" with commentary, as well
as a collection of analytical essays about the story. [The link is to the
sitemap for the module.]

See
also the Essay Draft Drop Box and the various forums and archives in Litonline--